Penge and Cator Councillors

I spoke at the licensing meeting on behalf of residents in Torr, Cottingham and Kingsdale Roads.   A representative of the Alexandra Cottages Residents' Association also spoke. 

We spoke about the issues of anti-social behaviour in the area, litter and disturbance and particularly the lack of parking.  The Lidl representatives said that although they were asking for licensing hours of Mon - Sat 0700 - 2300, Sun 0900-1800, these hours would only be used on special occasions such as the run up to Christmas.   Their normal operating hours would be from 8 am to 9 pm and 10 am to 4 or 5 pm on Sundays, as in their other shops.   They agreed strict conditions covering the sale of alcohol to minors and pointed out that they do not sell cigarettes and that their range of alcohol is restricted and mainly not the major brands. 

The Penge store will be about ½ the size of the Beckenham store and will not carry the larger goods.   It will be more like a Tesco Express. 

The Committee granted the hours asked for, noting the conditions regarding sales to young people.   Although they were sympathetic to the concerns of local residents, they did not think that alcohol sales on their own would make a significant difference  to local residents.   The law does not allow the committee to make assumptions about future anti-social behaviour. 

However, the law does give residents and other bodies power to ask for a licence to be reconsidered if there is evidence of behaviour contrary to the licensing laws.   This is a powerful option for residents.   The Licensing Officer at the meeting reminded residents that they do need to report any breaches so that that they can be investigated and action taken.   Penge Food Centre recently had their licence suspended when it was proved that they had been selling alcohol to young people. 

If you have any further concerns, please contact us directly.